Getting Rid of Bad HVAC Habits

It’s easy to develop bad habits. Most of us, if we’re honest, can admit to plenty of them. But what about your HVAC system? Maybe you have some bad HVAC habits and don’t even know it. Let’s take a look at some of the worst — and unfortunately, most common –among homeowners.

Failing to change the air filter.

It’s easy to forget to change the air filter, but if you aren’t pretty dedicated to doing this task regularly, you need to set a reminder on your phone or put a note on your fridge. Not changing the filter slows down air flow, which can prevent the unit from cooling or heating properly. Dirty filters also prevent the unit from adequately dehumidifying the home, not to mention allowing airborne particulates to accumulate in the system, where they cause friction, heating and eventually, a breakdown.

Blocking registers and vents.

Blocked registers will not help you save money on your energy bill, but will make the HVAC system run inefficiently. Blocking off registers increases pressure in the ductwork. The pressure imbalance causes the return air duct to pull in unconditioned air from the outdoors through minute cracks around doors and windows.

Cranking the thermostat way up or down.

Some people do this under the mistaken impression it will cool off or heat up the home faster. It will not. What may happen is you’ll forget to adjust the thermostat, and your HVAC system will labor to reach these settings, causing wear and tear or overheating.

Neglecting preventative maintenance.

Preventative maintenance is the best way to keep your HVAC system running right. If you don’t have a qualified technician check out your system each fall and spring, you run the risk of allowing little problems to turn into major repairs.

Blocking airflow around the outdoor unit.

The condenser/compressor requires good air flow to cool the home. Never stack anything on top or on the sides of the unit; aim mowers so the grass clippings don’t clog the fins and coils.

For more on improving your bad HVAC habits, contact Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions of Orlando.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).